THE BEST CAFES AND BRUNCH SPOTS IN BOSTON NOW

If you’re planning to visit the historical city of Boston, Massachusetts, there’s one thing you can delight in – you’ll be sure to find a wonderful café culture in the city and surroundings, checking off all your coffee, bakery, and brunch needs. The cafes and brunch spots in Boston range from small chains to local and independent spots that are hidden away and known only to locals. But rest assured, the coffee is great, weekend brunching is a fashion and café culture is firmly set in Bostonians way of life!

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How Do They Drink Regular Coffee in Boston

When it comes to a quintessential coffee order, in Boston no matter the season a large iced black coffee is the go-to for many. However those that prefer a little more sweet may opt for  a medium iced with hazelnut cream and sugar!!

More often than not, Bostonians will order a ‘Coffee Regular’ referring to coffee with cream and sugar. It’s a very New England ‘thing’ and refers to coffee originating at Dunkin Donuts during rush hour commute. So now you know what to ask for to fit in with the locals.

Cafes and Brunch Spots Dietary Requirements

Boston is a great place for dietary intolerances and the like, namely because there is just so much choice when it comes to alternatives. Be it alternative options such as vegetarian, vegan, coeliac or if you’d prefer a milk other than the regular cows milk. If you don’t see it advertised, it’s good to ask your server or at a counter because the chances are there are further options, or they can ask the kitchen to modify and exchange certain ingredients to suit you. Customer service is key in the USA, especially in food outlets and Boston is no exception.

How Much Would You Expect to Pay in Cafes and Brunch Spots in Boston

As with the rest of the globe, food prices are rising in Boston and you can expect to pay around $2.80 for a regular cup of black coffee. Any extras, like a cappuccino, expect to pay just shy of $4.50-$5.00. Lattes and Frappes can be anything from $5.50-6.00. Freshly squeezed juices can be around $4…-$4.50.

If you love your breakfast pastries, an almond croissant or a buttery palmier could cost you in the region of $3.50-$4.50. Cooked breakfasts, Shakshuka, breakfast sandwiches and rolls would be around $9.00-$11.00 depending upon size and any extras you may want to add.

Gratuities Culture in Boston

Gratuities culture is big in Boston as with other parts of the USA. Prepare to be presented with options of paying. between 15%-25% on your bill. The choice is yours but its good to note that pay what you feel reflects the service you are offered. Many bakeries and other outlets where you pay at the counter will give you a set gratuities payment but you have the option to change this to $5, 10% or 15% so feel free to pay what you feel is appropriate.

Downloadable Google Map With All Cafes & Brunch Spots

The Best Cafes and Brunch Spots in Boston Now

Coffee Shops

Gracnote Boston

One of the best coffee roasters in Boston, Gracenote coffee has a limited menu of traditional coffees, hot chocolate and teas. The cool, minimal decor is perfect as are the understated coffee machines. Here your coffee is brewed to perfection before being weighed and meticulously handled.

There is also a small selection of homemade cakes and you can purchase all your coffee supplies as well as beans here. The shop is small with a few seats overlooking the street and also the back of the shop with the majority of people taking out.

We recommend going early and (close to opening time) and sitting in to savour this perfectly made cup of coffee and to fully appreciate the care taken in preparing the perfect cup.

• Location: 108 Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111 I Map Location
• Further Information: Gracenote Coffee
• Hours: Mon – Thurs 08:00-16:00 I Sat – Sun 09:00-16:30
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendation: A cappuccino with a slice of banana, tea, walnut and cinnamon cake.

Ogawa Coffee

Located in Milk Street downtown this Japanese coffee chain, has it’s first overseas branch in Boston.

It’s contemporary, clean design and attention to detail draws you in with natural wood and black finishes. As well as tables seating, there is also a stepped seating design at the back, which maximises space in a clever and current way.

As well as a good range of coffees, sweet treats, and light sandwiches, there are several Asian sweets too.

If you’re a fan of hot chocolate, you will love their indulgent options with whipped cream as well as a spicy alternative in the cooler months.

• Location: 10 Milk St, Boston, MA 02108 I Tel. +1 617-780-7139 I Map Location
• Further Information: Ogawa Coffee
• Hours: Mon – Thurs 08:00-16:00 I Sat – Sun 09:00-16:30
• Price Range: $

Be-lavie Recommendations: Quick breakfast with a whole milk latte and almond croissant.

Thinking Cup

This is  local chain serves Stumptown coffee, in homely ceramic mugs close to the Boston Common, if you’re in the vicinity, it’s definitely worth  a visit. Grab a coffee to accompany your walk or preferably sit in and sample the delicious breakfast sandwiches, flaky pastries or oatmeal. The lattes do have an air of Instagram-friendly to them – just saying!! There are three locations; Boston Common, Back Back & North End – all great walking points when exploring Boston.

• Location: 165 Tremont Street. Boston, MA 02111 I Tel.  617.482.5555 I Map Location
• Further Information: Thinking Cup
• Hours: Mon – Sun 07:00- 19:00
• Price Range: $

Be-lavie Recommendation; A pretty latte for the win.

Render Coffee

Located in the trendy South end district, Render Coffee is a local second floor hang-out. Independently and locally owned, it’s all about the coffee here. Coffee beans are sourced from local roasteries with a great range of coffees from cold brews, to Americanos lattes and cortados to mention a few. Grab a table by the window or on the patio but be warned this place is so good you’ll be struggling for a seat. A local authentic experience in the heart of Boston’s residential district!

• Location: 563 Columbus Ave Suite 2, Boston, MA 02118 I Tel. +1 617-262-4142 I Map Location
• Further Information: Render Coffee
• Hours: Mon – Fri 07:00- 16:00 I Sat -Sun 08:00-16:00
• Price Range: $

Be-lavie Recommendation: Simple Black Coffee and a window seat!

Bakeries

Bakey

This bakery is not to be missed. I guarantee the smell as you enter will ensure you will not leave empty handed. From delicious breads to pastries to sandwiches and lots more, the long queues speak for themselves at Bakey. You can even purchase one of theri cookbooks to recreate some of the dough magic at home.

Bakey co-founder Uri Scheft is an internationally renowned, Danish-Israeli baker who focusses in dough creations that reflect both European and Israeli baking traditions. 

The braided breads look incredible as does the range of Babka options. Think cinnamon, apple, strawberry, raspberry and so many more. Everything is baked fresh instore and you can see the team of bakers at work right before you.

• Location (South End branch): 151 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02111, United States I Tel. +1 6176700114 I Map Location
• Further Information: Bakey Babka
• Hours: Tues. – Sat 07:00-18:00 I Sun 07:00 – 16:00 I Sundays closed
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: A drip coffee and a raspberry Babka

Tatte Bakery & Cafe

Founded by self-taught pastry chef, Israeli born Tzurit, Tatte Bakery has grown to over 18 locations throughout Boston and Washington DC, since the days  Tzurit baked in her home kitchen and sold her delights at The Copley Square Market.

A café with beautiful French styled bistro décor and consistent for personal service is what Tatte is all about.

The drinks list is varied and all intolerances and dietary requirements are taken care with milk alternatives and the like to suit. The drinks list may be incredible, but it doesn’t stop there, the café serves the most delicious pastries, breads, bowls, soups, tartines, sandwiches and a Steller brunch menu on the weekends. Tatte may have grown but each bakery still retains a sense of individuality in terms of décor, customer service and ambience.

Be-lavie Tip: Tatte has a huge Gluten Free Menu too

• Location (South End branch): 345 Harrison Avenue, Boston, MA 02118 I Tel. +1 6178304600 I Map Location
• Further Information: Tatte Bakery
• Hours: Mon – Sat 07:00-20:00 I Sun 08:00- 19:00
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendation:  Oat Milk Latte. Palmier, apple Babka or almond croissant. Cold drink lovers, an iced chai latte is a winner. If you fancy brunch then opt for Shakhuka or. a breakfast croissant filled with eggs (your style), avocado, cheese and tomatoes.

Flour Bakery & Café

Led by award-winning pastry-chef, James Beard and co-owner, Joanne Chang, Flour opened its first bakery in 2000 and now has 10 cafés and bakeries in lovely locations dotted around Boston and Cambridge. Their ethos is quite simple, providing delicious gooey sticky buns, irresistible BLTS along with a whole host of other bakery and brunch items and hot and cold drinks to eat in or have on the go. It’s homely for a chain and welcoming and warm smiles go a long way.

• Location (South End Branch): 1595 Washington St Boston, MA 02118 I Tel. +1 617 267-4300 I Map Location
• Further Information: Flour Bakery & Cafe
• Hours: Mon – Fri 07:00-19:00 I Sat-Sun 08:00 – 18:00
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendation: French toast with maple syrup or a breakfast roll with an Americano

Blackbird Doughnuts

If you fancy a doughnut but with simpler less loaded toppings in a variety of options, Blackbird Doughnuts is your friend. Choose from a range of classics as monthly specials, ice-cream and hot and cold beverages. There are seven locations in Boston so you won’t be too far away for a doughnut and coffee fix! The Newton Hill and Beacon Hill branches have a lot more beverage choices such as chai lattes, Booibos teas and Match lattes.

• Location South End Branch: 492 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02116 I Tel. +1 617 4829000 I Map Location
• Further Information: Blackbird Doughnuts
• Hours: Mon – Fri 07:00-16:00 I Sat – Sun 08:00 – 16:00
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendation: The Blackbird )Vanilla bean cake and vanilla glaze) or Salted Toffee (brioche, salted toffee glaze and salt) whilst sipping on an unsweetened  cold brew.

Mikes Pastry

Founded in 1946, Mike’s Pastry is located in Boston’s historic North End on Hanover Street. Michael Mercogliano aka Mike has perfected the art of fresh cannoli in a huge varieties of flavour combination as well as cream lobster tails and other Italian bakes and sweets. The queues here are out of the door on most weekends and all sweet treats come wrapped in a box with string around them. There’s no seating available, only take-out.

• Location: 300 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113 I Tel.  +1 617-742-3050 I Map Location
• Further Information: Mike’s Pastry
• Hours: Mon – Sun 08:00-22:00
• Price Range: $ (one large cannoli is $5)

Be-lavie Recommendation: The Pistacchio or lemon cannoli

Jonquils Cafe

Jonquils Café derives it’s name from the flower which spans many countries and it is located on the upmarket shopping area of Newbury Street. The decor is bright, modern and classy – the perfect spot to meet for a sophisticated girlie date. Jonquils serve a range of speciality teas, fresh juices, beautiful bakes, low in sugar as well as healthy lunch time options too.

• Location: 125 Newbury St, Boston, MA 02116 I Tel. +1 617-982-6117 I Map Location
• Further Information: Jonquils Cafe
• Hours: Mon – Sun 09:00 – 18:00
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendation: The Apple Caramel apple confit, soft caramel, cream cheese, caramel cream, crunch, chocolate sponge) with an iced latte on the terrace to people watch.

Levain Bakery

Created by passionate Swimmer and athletes, Pam Weekes and Connie McDonald created Levain bakery in 1995 serving a variety of breads, loaf cakes, cookies, brioche and beverages. There are 11 bakeries with a few in NYC and Brooklyn as well as Massachusetts. Each store has their seasonal products which brings a spot of independent style charm and individuality.

• Location: 180 Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116 I Tel. +1 617-390-7799 I Map Location
• Further Information: Levain Bakery
• Hours: Mon – Sun 08:00-21:00
• Price Range: $

Be-lavie Recommendation: Grab a seat in the deck-chair style umbrella seating looking out onto Newbury street and have a mid-morning snack of deliciously moist lemon cake accompanied by a latte.

Brunch

The Buttery

Opened back in 2005, when there were a lack of places in the South End serving good quality food and coffee throughout the day to present day, when The Buttery is one of the most popular eateries in the district. A great corner location with cafe seating, an outdoor patio space as well as a cosy restaurant with fire in the back and basement, there is plenty to eat and drink at this spot in Boston. Weekend brunching is a sell-out and requires reservations to avoid disappointment. Be sure to taste their signature breakfast sandwiches, soups, cupcakes and delicious restaurant food but you can also take out a great coffee and other items should you wish. A real gem of a place in this residential beautiful neighbourhood.

• Location: 314 Shawmut Avenue, Boston, MA 02118 I Tel. +1 6174821015 I Map Location
• Further information: South End Buttery
• Hours: Sun – Weds 06:30 – 20:00 I Thurs 0 Sat 06:30 – 21:00 (these are cafe hours 0 brunch in the restaurant is starts at 09:00. Choose where you’d like to sit at time of reservation, which is essential.
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Reservations for breakfast/brunch are essential to avoid disappointment. The freshly squeezed orange juice is a great way to start, accompanied by a cappuccino with milk of your choice. The Buttery breakfast is delicious as a main and includes, eggs you style, avocado, 2 fluffy pancakes with. Maple syrup.

Mike & Patty’s

Ask any Bostonian where the best place to get a breakfast sandwich is and they’ll say, Mike & Patty’s. Located in Bay Village, close to South End, this shop is very small, 175 square feet with room only to order, pay the bill and the rest brought out to you. It’s a tiny sandwich shop but packs a huge punch. There are now five locations, and the menu caters for vegan, vegetarian and kids options along with cold drinks and sweet treats in the form of chocolate chip cookies. Choose from breakfast sandwiches or a burrito!

• Location (South End Branch): 12 Church Street, Boston, MA 02116 I Tel. +1 617-423-3447 I Map Location
• Further information: Mike and Pattys
• Hours: Mon – Sun 07:20 – 14:00
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: ‘The Vegan One’ Just egg, vegan smoked gouda, blue oyster mushroom hash, maple sriracha on a flour house English muffin, washed down with a fresh OJ or Apple and strawberry juice.

Citrus & Salt

Inspired by Baja cuisine, this Coastal Mexican restaurant showcases Chef Jason Santos’ love for Southern Californian and Mexican dishes. The restaurant is fun, bright, colourful and very instagrammable. The brunch menu is pretty extensive with interesting brunch cocktails such as ‘Tequila is cheaper than therapy’ (with Ghost tequila, mango jalapeño, agave, cucumber and lime, chili-lime salt rim ) as well as options to add a range of flavours to your Margarita. Brunch dishes include, made to order churros, Chilaquiles with eggs and goat cheese and avocado BLT tacos with salsa galore and crème fraiche.

Booking is a must at Citrus & Salt and brunch is served until 16:00

• Location: 42 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116 I Tel. +1 617-424-6711 I Map Location
• Further Information: Citrus and Salt
• Hours: Mon – Tues 17:00-23:00 I Weds 12:00-23:00 I Thurs – Fri 12:00-00:00 I Sat – Sun 10:30 –3:45 pm, 5 pm–00:00
• Price Range: $$/$$$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Breakfast quesadilla with eggs, pepper jack cheese and Mexican crema. Churros with vanilla dulce and a a Mexican iced coffee containing Baileys, Frangelico and Mexican chocolate in a cold brew.

Café Susu at Suitsupply

Hidden in the basement of Suitsupply on Newbury Street, this spectacle of jade, suede chairs, brass accessories and a beautiful chandelier is Café Susu, the  epitome of Instagram worthy content!

The espresso bar and café serves beautiful drinks combinations from iced teas to flowery lattes accompanied by pastries sourced locally from Café Madeline.

The space is small and very intimate and perfect for a late morning or afternoon hang out spot! Another one of the very instagram-friendly cafes and brunch spots in Boston.

• Location: 240A Newbury Street, Boston, MA 02116 I Tel. +1 617-249-7821 ext. 1 I Map Location (located in the basement on Suitsupply
• Further Information: Cafe Susu
• Hours: Mon – Sat 11:00-19:00 I Sun 12:00 – 18:00
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendation: Roobios honey lavender lemonade with an almond croissant.

Berkeley Perk Café

A local café located on the main Berkeley Street in South End, this residential café is perfect for homemade fresh cakes, sandwiches, fry-ups as well as great brunching options.

Sit in one of the booths or take a window seat, the friendly staff will take you through the extensive menu which is listed on a blackboard inside. Berkeley Perk café has a local feel and it’s somewhere you can hang out with a paper and enjoy a coffee and some real no frills food cooked perfectly.

• Location: 69 Berkeley St, Boston, MA 02116 I Tel. +1 617-426-7375 I Map Location
• Further Information: Berkeley Perk Cafe
• Hours: Mon – Fri 07:00 – 15:00 I Sat 07:00-14:00 ( Closed Sundays
• Price Range $

Be-lavie Recommendations: ‘The True Veggie’ hummus, avocado, tomatoes in an onion bagel, washed down with a fresh OJ and black filter coffee.

Life Alive

A healthy, vibrant, organic experience awaits at Life Alive, as it aims to re-energise you with therapeutic whole foods in an inspiring environment that not only honours local artisans but also the community as well as the globe. Life Alive have some brilliant missions in helping the planet and community as well as bringing delicious healthy foods from brunch bowls to grains, smoothies, greens, ramen, lattes, speciality juices and much more. There are nine locations in total offering all day food and drinks that will awaken your senses and make you feel super healthy with the tasty menu choice available.

• Locations and Visiting Information: 505 Tremont Street, Boston, MA 02116 I Tel. +1 6179826633 I Map Location
• Visiting Information: Life Alive
• Hours: Mon-Sun 07:00-21:00 ** There are many locations of Live Alive, this is the South End branch.
• Reservations: Not required
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Spicy tofu miso ramen and pineapple smash smoothie with ginger, turmeric, lemon, maple and Kombucha.

Cobblestones

This eatery located in beacon Hill is named after the cobblestoned streets in this old and historic neighbourhood. Take your pic from delicious freshly made breakfast sandwiches and wraps, Acai bowls, waffles, lunch sandwiches and salads as well as desserts and a variety of hot and cold drinks including juices and smoothies. The Atmosphere s relaxed, especially at weekends. Place your order at the counter and take a pew at the high-top counters and people watch as you tuck into your goodies.

• Location: 30 Charles St, Boston, MA 02114 I Tel. +1 617-202-5377 I Map Location
• Further Information: Cobblestones
• Hours: Mon – Sun 08:00 – 18:00
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendations: Egg white wrap with Monterey Jack cheese, melted with baby spinach with a latte or cappuccino.

Terra at Eataly: Cafes and Bruch Spots in Boston

Terra is the terrace on the top floor of Eataly at the Prudential Centre. It serves Italian twists of American classics and is very pupular with liquid brunch lovers, in particular, the Espressp Martinis. You can choose from the classic tini, blended with Caffe Vergano beans (quality bean specialists of the world) as well as tequila version for those who don’t like vodka.

When it comes to the food, think frittatas with courgettes, steaks bruschetta with burrata, sweet pastries, yoghurts with seasonal fruit and granola to mention a few options. Definitely one of the more special cafes and brunch spots in Boston.

• Location: 800 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02199 I Tel. +1 617-807-7307 I Map Location
• Further Information: Terra at Eataly
• Hours: Mon – Thurs 11:30 – 21:30 I Fri 11:30 – 22:00 I Sat| 11:00 – 22:00 I Sun 11:00 – 21:30 I Brunch is served Sat & Sun 11am – 3pm I Terra is closed from 16:00 – 17:00 daily
• Price Range: $$

Be-lavie Recommendation: Tomato and burrata salad with lashings of olive oil and red wine.

Brunch Activity in Boston

Heres a great brunch activity that can be taken during the fall months in Boston

• Boston Harbour Gourmet Brunch Cruise

Other Boston Food Tours

• Underground Donut Walking Tour
• Boston North End Secret Food Tour

Cafes and Brunch Spots in Boston Round-Up

Whether it’s a early morning grab and go coffee, a mid-morning cold brew and pastry or a midweek brunch meeting, Boston cafes have you covered. Weekend brunching affairs in Boston are longer and more relaxed. You chose with the vast range of choice available and small local chains in many of the city’s districts, you won’t be far from favourite café and brunch spots in Boston wherever you’re based.

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À bientôt

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